What Are Some Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis?

Symptoms of shoulder bursitis include pain when lifting the arm over the head or moving the shoulder, decreased movement of the shoulder or arm, swelling and redness, according to Drugs.com. Some people may experience weakness in the shoulder or arm, and moving the shoulder may cause popping or crunching.

To manage symptoms related to shoulder bursitis, rest the affected area to allow the swelling and pain to subside, recommends Drugs.com. To decrease pain and swelling, the affected area should be iced up to four times daily for up to 20 minutes at a time. To encourage mobility and decrease pain, apply heat up to four times daily for up to 20 minutes at a time.

People with shoulder bursitis should avoid sleeping on the problematic shoulder, states Drugs.com. To alleviate pain and encourage mobility and strength, it may be necessary to exercise with a physical therapist. It is important to contact a health care professional if the symptoms do not improve with treatment or the pain, swelling, redness or fever get worse.

Some common causes of shoulder bursitis include a bacterial infection, a fall or injury, and frequent use of the shoulder, notes Drugs.com. Shoulder bursitis may also be caused by a bony growth that aggravates the bursa and tendons.